A Sparkling Success: The Rise of English Sparkling Wines

There was a time, not too long ago, when English wine was considered something of a curiosity, an afterthought on a wine list, politely sipped but rarely celebrated. Fast forward to today, and the story couldn’t be more different. English sparkling wine is now firmly in the spotlight, winning international awards and earning a well-deserved place alongside the very best bottles from Champagne and beyond.

So, how did we get here?

A Climate Ripe for Change

The South of England, with its chalky soils and increasingly favourable climate, has quietly become one of the most exciting places in the world for sparkling wine production. Regions such as Kent, Sussex, Hampshire and Cornwall boast growing conditions strikingly similar to those of the Champagne region in France. In fact, some of the very same grape varieties - Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier, are thriving in English vineyards.

It’s no coincidence that some of the biggest names in Champagne, including Taittinger and Pommery, have recently invested in English soil. As our summers have become warmer and drier, the grapes have reached ripeness levels once thought difficult to achieve in our temperate climate, resulting in wines with finesse, elegance and complexity.

Craftsmanship and Care

One of the driving forces behind the rise in quality is the sheer dedication of English winemakers. Many producers are boutique operations, focusing on small-scale, high-quality production rather than mass-market volume. The traditional method (méthode traditionnelle), which involves a second fermentation in the bottle, is standard practice among the country’s leading vineyards, mirroring the approach used in Champagne.

Today, English sparkling wines are regularly taking home top honours at international competitions, earning praise from sommeliers and critics alike. What once may have been viewed as a patriotic purchase is now widely recognised as a truly world-class choice.

A Shift in Perception

Perhaps the most remarkable change has been in public perception. Where once the idea of drinking an English fizz might have raised an eyebrow, it’s now more likely to raise a glass. Wine lovers across the UK have embraced homegrown sparkling wine with enthusiasm, and export interest is growing too, particularly in Scandinavia, the US, and Japan.

There’s also been a cultural shift towards supporting local producers and choosing sustainable, lower-mileage products. English sparkling wine ticks both of those boxes. It’s increasingly found on the wine lists of Michelin-starred restaurants and in the cellars of collectors who appreciate not just its flavour, but its provenance.

Looking Ahead

The last few years have seen production volumes increase, new vineyards planted, and more innovation across the industry. There’s a growing emphasis on sustainable viticulture, with many producers adopting organic and biodynamic practices. Some are experimenting with longer ageing, single vineyard cuvées, or non-vintage blends to highlight consistency across the years.

Yet despite the momentum, there remains a charming humility in the industry. English winemakers are, by and large, a grounded bunch, more focused on the land and the bottle than the limelight. And perhaps that’s part of the appeal. There’s a sense of discovery and authenticity in each glass, a reminder that great wine doesn’t always have to come from far away.

Why Now’s the Perfect Time to Discover English Sparkling Wine

What was once considered a novelty is now one of the most exciting stories in the world of wine. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or simply curious to try something new, English sparkling wine offers a rewarding experience, crisp, complex, and delightfully local.

So next time you're celebrating, or just fancy something special on a Friday night, consider raising a glass of English fizz. It might just surprise you, in the best possible way.

Looking to try one for yourself?

We’re proud to stock Harrow & Hope Brut Reserve at Copas Farm Shop, a beautifully balanced, award-winning English sparkling wine crafted just a few miles away in Marlow.

Harrow & Hope’s signature blend is made from all three classic grape varieties, led by the pure fruit and texture of Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier, and elegantly supported by the finesse of Chardonnay. It’s a perfect example of what English vineyards can achieve when passion meets precision.  

This beautifully crafted sparkling wine is available to purchase here at Copas Farm Shop......shop here.